Knee pain affects many adults as they navigate their daily routines and activities, and it stems from various underlying conditions. Because the knee joint supports the majority of the body’s weight, even minor injuries result in noticeable stability issues during movement. You rely on your knees for basic mobility, so ignoring symptoms leads to worsening conditions over time. Here are some of the causes of knee pain and how to treat them effectively:
Forms of Arthritis
Osteoarthritis wears down the protective cushioning within the joint structure gradually over many years. When this occurs, it causes friction between the bones during simple actions such as walking. The joint becomes stiff, and movement creates significant discomfort for the patient on a regular basis.
Rheumatoid arthritis acts differently because it is an autoimmune disease that targets the lining of the knee joint specifically. While the immune system protects the body from harm, it attacks healthy tissue in this particular scenario. Swelling occurs rapidly, and the pain varies in intensity throughout the day.
Tendinitis or Bursitis
Overuse can lead to painful inflammation in the tendons or the fluid-filled bursae sacs. Athletes jump or run frequently, and this constant repetition stresses the connective tissues surrounding the kneecap. If you feel warmth or tenderness around the joint, you likely have inflammation in that specific area. Typical diagnoses in this category include:
- Tendinitis
- Knee bursitis
Cartilage Damage
When a sudden twist occurs during sports or a fall, the meniscus often tears inside, and leads to knee pain. This tough, rubbery cartilage absorbs shock between the thigh and shin bones to prevent bone-on-bone contact. A piece sometimes breaks loose, or the rough edge catches painfully during normal motion. The knee locks up unexpectedly, and the patient struggles to straighten the leg fully without assistance.
Treatment Options
Corticosteroid injections are used to quickly reduce acute inflammation, but they do not cure the underlying condition permanently. Laser therapy stimulates healing at the cellular level by using focused light energy on the affected tissue. Because light energy penetrates deep into the joint, it promotes blood flow to the injured area effectively.
Physical therapy strengthens the muscles surrounding the knee joint to provide better support for the skeleton. When your quadriceps and hamstrings become stronger, they take pressure off the damaged cartilage and ligaments. You perform specific exercises, and the therapist guides your form to prevent further injury during the process.
If conservative methods fail to provide relief, surgery remains a viable option for severe structural damage or advanced decay. Osteotomy involves cutting and reshaping bones to relieve pressure on the joint and improve alignment. Cartilage restoration focuses on repairing or regenerating damaged cartilage to restore joint function and reduce pain.
Get Therapy for Knee Pain
You do not have to live with chronic discomfort on a daily basis if you get treated promptly for knee pain conditions. While the pain feels permanent right now, the right treatment plan restores function effectively for many patients. Contact our clinic today for an evaluation, and you can begin your treatment path and regain mobility.
